Engineering Geology and Geotechnics BSc
Penryn Campus, United Kingdom
Bachelor of Science in Engineering Geology and Geotechnics
University of Exeter
Engineering Geology and Geotechnics
Program Overview: BSc Engineering Geology and Geotechnics
The BSc Engineering Geology and Geotechnics at the University of Exeter focuses on understanding the Earth, its processes and resources, and the engineering properties of rocks and soils. Designed to prepare you to tackle site investigation, ground engineering, and remediation associated with civil engineering infrastructure projects and the safe supply of critical raw materials, this program provides a strong foundation in both geological science and engineering practice.
You will gain technical experience through over 60 days of fieldwork as well as laboratory classes, with opportunities for an industry placement and independent research. The program is taught at Exeter's Penryn Campus in Cornwall by the Camborne School of Mines, a combined geoscience and mining department with an international reputation for research-inspired teaching and excellent graduate prospects.
The program is accredited by The Geological Society, which is the first step on the ladder to Chartered Geologist status after graduation. It has also been accredited by the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3) under licence from the UK Engineering Council, ensuring your qualification is recognised by industry professionals worldwide.
Key Program Highlights
- Over 60 days of hands-on fieldwork across the UK and abroad, including residential courses in Devon, Dorset, the Isle of Skye, and international destinations such as Spain or Cyprus
- Accredited by The Geological Society and the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3), supporting your path to Chartered Geologist status
- Taught by the renowned Camborne School of Mines at Penryn Campus, Cornwall, with direct access to unique and outstanding local geology
- Flexible degree structure allowing transfer between BSc and MSci geology programs during your first year, with optional industry placement opportunities
Curriculum and Modules
The BSc Engineering Geology and Geotechnics curriculum is structured across three years, building from foundational geological principles to advanced engineering geology and independent research. Fieldwork is embedded throughout the program, with practical sessions in Cornwall, across the UK, and at international locations. In your final year, you can tailor your studies through a selection of optional modules covering evolving global environmental challenges.
An introduction to the structure, composition, and processes of the Earth, covering mineralogy, petrology, and the geological timescale. This module establishes the scientific foundations for all subsequent geological study.
Develops essential field skills including geological mapping, rock identification, and structural analysis through practical sessions in Cornwall and residential field courses in Devon, Dorset, and the Isle of Skye.
Covers the engineering properties of rocks and soils, ground investigation techniques, and the principles of soil mechanics relevant to civil engineering and infrastructure projects.
Introduces geophysical methods used in subsurface investigation, including seismic, electrical, and magnetic techniques applied to site characterisation and resource exploration.
An international residential field course examining outstanding areas of geology famous for tectonic and mining history, typically cycling between Spain and Cyprus, integrating classroom theory with real-world engineering geology practice.
Elective Modules
Admission Requirements
Admission to the BSc Engineering Geology and Geotechnics is competitive and based on academic achievement in relevant science subjects. International applicants are welcome and should contact Uni4Edu for guidance on equivalent qualifications from their home country. All applications are processed through Uni4Edu.
Academic Requirements
- A-Level RequirementsGrade B in Geology, OR Grade B in two other Science subjects required (excluding General Studies)
- IB Diploma32 points overall, or 6-5-5 at Higher Level, with HL Grade 5 in Geology or HL Grade 5 in two other Science subjects
- BTEC Extended DiplomaAccepted in Applied Science or Engineering without additional A-Level requirements; contact Uni4Edu for specific grade profiles
- GCSE MathematicsMinimum Grade C or 4
- GCSE English LanguageMinimum Grade C or 4
English Language Requirements
- IELTS AcademicContact Uni4Edu for the current minimum score requirement
- TOEFL iBTContact Uni4Edu for the current minimum score requirement
- Pre-sessional EnglishINTO University of Exeter offers pre-sessional English courses for international students who need to meet language requirements
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
The University of Exeter offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities for international students. For the 2026/27 academic year, the university has made GBP 7 million available in scholarships for international students. Contact Uni4Edu for personalised guidance on eligibility and application procedures.
Exeter Excellence Scholarship (Undergraduate)
GBP 3,000 or GBP 5,000 per year (tuition fee reduction)Merit-based scholarships recognising outstanding academic achievement for international fee-paying undergraduate students. These are recurring awards applied as a reduction in international tuition fees for each eligible year of study. Apply through Uni4Edu once you hold an offer.
Country-Specific Undergraduate Awards
Varies by country; combinable with Exeter Excellence up to GBP 10,000Automatic awards available to eligible candidates from specific countries or territories to help make studying at Exeter more accessible. These can be combined with Exeter Excellence Scholarships to a maximum of GBP 10,000 towards annual tuition fees. Contact Uni4Edu for country-specific details.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the BSc Engineering Geology and Geotechnics enjoy excellent career opportunities across a wide range of industries. Geology and geoscience degrees lead to high employment rates and competitive salaries, with graduate opportunities available both in the UK and around the world. The Camborne School of Mines Association and the University of Exeter Careers Service provide strong alumni networks and employer connections to support your transition into the workforce.
Typical Graduate Roles
Where Graduates Work
Rankings and Recognition
The University of Exeter is a member of the prestigious Russell Group and consistently ranks among the top universities in the UK and worldwide. The university achieved Triple Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023 and was named University of the Year in the UK Social Mobility Awards 2025, reflecting its commitment to outstanding teaching and student outcomes.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Earth and Marine Sciences | QS World Rankings | Top 150 (Contact Uni4Edu for current data) |
| Engineering and Technology | THE World Rankings | #333 globally, #31 in UK (2025) |
| Geology | Complete University Guide (UK) | Contact Uni4Edu for current data |
| Graduate Employability | High Fliers Research | Top 10 in UK (2025) |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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